Study examines link between alcohol availability in Syracuse and public health

Syracuse, NY -- Health officials announced today a project that studies the association between availability of alcohol in Syracuse neighborhoods and the health and safety of the public.

The Syracuse Alcohol Environment Project, a collaboration between the Syracuse-Onondaga Drug and Alcohol Abuse Commission and the Onondaga County Health Department, determined that several Syracuse neighborhoods may have an overconcentration of alcohol outlets.

"This study allows us to use geographic information system mapping to look at the availability of alcohol in our neighborhoods and the health of our community," said Dr. Cynthia Morrow, the county's health commissioner.

The maps used in the study indicate that a number of Syracuse residential neighborhoods appear to have numerous alcohol outlets. Alcohol outlets include bars, restaurants and stores that sell alcohol and liquor.

These areas include the area surrounding Little Italy around North Salina Street; the city's Westside near Frazer school; parts of Eastwood; James at Lodi and Westcott. The study also identifies Armory Square as an area of concern because of its high density of bars and dining establishments serving alcohol.

"An impressive body of research has shown that the increased availability of alcohol leads to a host of alcohol-related problems, including violence, child abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, and alcohol-related hospitalizations," said Bob Pezzolesi, the project's investigator, in a news release.

Morrow said that she thinks this study is needed.

"The results of the study aren't surprising but the study allows us to have a written report of the findings," she said.

Morrow compared the study to legislation in New York City that is trying to limit the number of fast food restaurants near schools. The New York legislation sites a study that links the amount of fast food restaurants near schools to childhood obesity.

"This study can help provide us with the information that can help us form new policies that can help keep our children and our communities healthy," Morrow said.

Pezzolesi funded the project, which he started in September 2008, as part of his master's program at Walden University.